UIC joins national effort to improve semiconductor sector
UIC joins national effort to improve semiconductor sector Heading link
UIC’s electrical and computer engineering department is joining a coalition of industry, government, and academic institutions to advance U.S. leadership in semiconductor manufacturing by addressing challenges in the semiconductor sector, improving supply chain resilience, and promoting economic growth.
Professors Sudip K. Mazumder and Igor Paprotny are part of a Semiconductor Research Corporation (SRC)-led team that has been awarded a $285 million Semiconductor Manufacturing and Advanced Research with Twins USA (SMART USA) grant supported by the U.S. Department of Commerce and National Institute of Science and Technology.
The initiative is focused on fostering innovation in semiconductor research, manufacturing, and workforce development. SMART USA will work to develop, validate, and use digital twins to improve domestic semiconductor design, manufacturing, advanced packaging, assembly, and test processes.
Digital twins are virtual digital models that replicate physical objects such as chips or machinery. These virtual models of a system’s processes provide a rich virtual environment where any number of simulations can be run. Digital twins incorporate real-time data from embedded sensors, and their two-way flow of information offers more robust opportunities for correction. This use of AI can optimize chip design, improve production efficiency, and lower costs by streamlining operations and reducing the need for costly adjustments.
The new SMART USA Institute will be headquartered in Durham, North Carolina, and will join an existing network of seventeen institutes designed to increase U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and promote a robust R&D infrastructure.
UIC’s involvement in SMART USA highlights the university’s commitment to advancing cutting-edge technologies and supporting U.S. leadership in semiconductor manufacturing.
“By working with the SRC and other partners, UIC will contribute to the development of new research methodologies, advanced manufacturing techniques, and workforce training programs that will shape the future of the semiconductor industry,” Mazumder said. “This collaboration represents an opportunity for UIC to leverage its expertise in engineering and technology to make a lasting impact on the leverage its expertise in engineering and technology to make a lasting impact on the future of semiconductor manufacturing and research.”
